Songs that are NOT wedding-friendly

THE month of May is about to end, and with that, plans for wedding schedules are all out in the open. This is true, most especially when these ceremonies are most popular in June every year.

Anyway, besides all the stellar things which make a wedding so heartwarmingly special (not to mention becoming another venue to come up with 101 photos you could post on Instagram), there is another aspect people involved with the whole production should pay attention to: the music.

Leave it to people like this guy, noh?

Yes, from the musical score the bride chooses to walk down the aisle with—or what music ends up being played in the background while hundreds of people skip the salads and proceed to attacking the roast pig at the end of the buffet line during the reception—the musical element to this once-in-a-lifetime gathering is something worth taking the effort to perfect.

And then there are times the wedding singer dedicates a song to the newlyweds, or sweeter, the groom (or bride) dedicates a song for his or her better half. These are the times that make the crowd silent in admiration for the for the love between bride and groom.

Not unless it’s the wrong song.

Shades and Sisig on a Saturday (Sunnies by Charlie, Cebu Launch)

     I've been to several media events. 

     Okay. Maybe lots of them already during all these years as a writer. Being involved with soft news primarily, I enjoy the perks of eating during work, or sometimes, eating for work. There's a big difference between the two, you know.

     But anyway, when it comes to these press things, I don't really want to mind the food. It's definitely not a snob thing, but I'm just a "zoom-in" kind of dude who prefers to get the work done first, then write the story asap after to avoid a clutter of unfulfilled articles with nagging deadlines.

     But last Feb.22, Saturday, there was this launch by independent eyewear and lifestyle brand Sunnies by Charlie, which I got an invite from BigSeed Marketing. For a second, I thought it was this new fast food place that served fried chicken. Ah, nope, that was something else, I was told. My bad.

     So I don't recall the event serving up chicken. But I do recall just walking in, minding my own business, shaking hands with friends, enjoying one glass--at this point--of white wine, while waiting for the event to start. (Early Bird mode-on). Food wasn't the priority, but the story was.

     Another thing I learned was, this wasn't just some new brand apparently. Fil-Brit commercial model and product endorser Georgina Wilson, was the brand's marketing director and is one of the proprietors as well. She runs the company together with her friends, finance director Eric Dee Jr.,  creative director Bea Soriano and operations director, Martine Cajucom.

     Now to be honest, I don't really follow the lives of showbiz personalities well as my other friends do. But I do try my best to appreciate these celebrities' works, if and when necessary. All I know was Georgina Wilson is one of the prettiest ladies in the country and I was going to verify the veracity of that statement personally.

Statement verified.

     So, the media launch by the way was held at The Northwing at SM City Cebu. This also marked the installment of the brand's sixth stall here in the Philippines and the first one outside of Metro Manila. Right at the upper ground floor in front of Kultura, Cebuanos can find the latest Sunnies By Charlie stall that offers quality eyewear with prices that start at P249. Not a bad deal for a pair of good shades if you ask me.


     I've browsed the product catalog and I must say, they've come up with a simple system to provide stylish shades for everyone. There's stuff for girls, and then there's stuff for the guys as well.

I think these are mostly for girls. But guys could check out the stall anyway if they want.

      I had the chance to chat with Georgina, (well more of like, formal interview) and she said that the reason Sunnies wanted to open here in Cebu was because that, Cebuano fashionistas were all requesting on the brand's official Instagram account that the brand be brought here. I think Cebuanos would enjoy the brand as well, much more that summer time is just around the corner. Beaches here we go! Plus, according to Georgina, expect one to open in Davao City real soon.

See? Just because you got them shades doesn't mean you need to stare at the sun.
A little "against-the-light" effect for good measure.

     
     Thanks to the organizers, I brought home a little token. I don't know what this model is, but my mom is crazy about this one. I just might give this to her, if she accepts. I think some of the brand's items are unisex anyway.

Nganung nindut man ni? Sunnies man.

     So the event apparently was some huge party where people could just enjoy, right? It didn't have like a start and end to it, which I found pretty cool anyway. Members of the media, bloggers and other VIPs and guests were present. After awhile passing the time with friends post-work, that buffet table at the corner seemed a little more inviting this time.

      "Miss, what's that right there?" I asked one of the servers what this particular dish was, that looked dumpling-like in nature. She then replied telling me it was sisig.

    (*If you don't know what sisig is, check this out.)

     Now, I find it a bit embarrassing that for a food writer, this is totally the first time I've heard or learned about the product. Is this a new product that was launched? Or has this been around for years now? Maybe it didn't get too much mainstream attention? I don't really know. AND WHY DID I JUST LEARN ABOUT THIS JUST NOW.

     But whatever the case, almost everything and anything sisig is great to me. So I got one piece--at this point--and tried it. *Cue in Handel's Messiah

Mesa's Sisig in a Pouch.

   
     It. Was. Glorious.

     It was pork sisig, but I think deep-fried while packed in a wanton wrapper. Okay, so it was a little greasy, yes. But it was tasty and crunchy at the same time. I think all the super models and beauty queens skipped this one out, so it left us guys with more pieces to enjoy (alright!). This is one rare pouch a man could fall in love with.

     By the end of the night, the scorecard probably went on something like this: (Quantity)

DINING SCORECARD (Estimate)

White Wine - 8

Red Wine - 1

Iced Tea - 1

Baked Tahong - 4

Sisig in a Pouch - 9

      Now before you judge me as one who drank and dined at work my brothers and sisters, know that the wineglass wasn't really filled to the brim--at least occasionally--and that tahong varies in sizes.

     But as for delighting at the combination of clear white wine and greasy crunchy sisig? Guilty as charged. But I've long repented and played a little basketball the day after to sweat the fats out.

     So that afternoon was that. I enjoyed the event that featured: a very popular commercial model, and superb pork pouches that should be just as popular. I will recreate this sisig invention at home for lunch. And then play basketball the day after.

     Thanks to BigSeed, Mesa, The Northwing and the whole Sunnies crew. It was pretty cool.

POSE. That's half of Noel's face, Joanna, Georgina Wilson, Fiona and myself.

     For more details about the brand: check this link.

     Cheers!

Farewell, Roy

     AS I am writing this entry, the internet is going funky again as it has this past couple of weeks.

     Well, funky is not the perfect word for it. A good chop of funk evokes a smile to my face. I find slow internet rather, very annoying. Like gum-under-the-shoe annoying. Work-wise, it's very counter-productive.

     And on a day like this, I usually have my SOP to handle such scenarios. If he were alive today, he'd definitely be the first person I'd call up, no doubt. 

     210. 

     But no, news of his passing still hasn't sunk in. Sure, there was the initial shock upon hearing the news during this morning's story planning. But once again it feels surreal, having to battle bad internet this time without the trusty IT guy by my side.

     Roy was declared dead due to a heart attack yesterday. It was only last week we've come across each other in the hallway, as we both greeted each other the occasional, "bai." He was definitely one of the good guys. What he seemingly lacked in "swag," he made up for pure efficiency. At least, that's how I'd see it when he'd come over to fix something at our department.

     He rarely spoke about his own opinions. He'd keep to himself and was good at listening. Who would've thought the guy would pass so sudden. Here at the lifestyle section, he was the go-to guy. When mouses weren't clicking and keyboards weren't working--he was the man. Not to discount the rest of the IT team of course for their hard work, but Roy was a very easy guy to call up. When neither Chrome or Firefox was good enough, he'd take a seat, punch down some random computer command that was fancier than Ctrl+Alt+Del, and in a few seconds, we'd be back in business.

     Truth be told, I didn't know him that much. We weren't close. But, I knew him for a long time while working here for the paper. I've always seen him as that young, humble and no-nonsense IT guy who was just about the work. Personally, I think calling 210 would take awhile getting used to all over again. But I'm just glad to think that we never really gave you any problems here, did we? 

     Farewell, bro. Take care. 

Blockbuster Bites

A LOT of great films are lined up for 2014 from both international and local productions. From moving dramas to super-hero action flicks, there will surely be a movie for everyone.

How does one make its viewing experience a better one? Here’s a suggestion: Pick a snack that’s as exciting as the screenplay that’s about to unfold. Here are five quick tips on what kinds of food to buy; tasty bites that go best along with the blockbuster hit you’re about to see.

POPCORN

If “cinema-snacking” had an official logo, none would be better than a pack of hot popcorn.

Pros. There are reasons why this one tops the list. For one, it can be served in different flavors. Another reason is that it’s something that’s easy to share and pass from one seatmate to another. Another great reason is that, due to its nature of “airiness” or “puffiness,” a large serving may last a viewer until the middle part of the movie—or for some instances, even until the end.

Cons. It could get boring just munching on popcorn—especially if it isn’t top caliber.

The kernels that get stuck in one’s teeth are definitely annoying. Plus, your fingers could get messy from all the flavoring.

SANDWICHES

Hotdog sandwiches and juicy burgers belong in this category.

Pros. You want a sure stomach-stuffer? This right here is perfect. The beauty of a juicy beef patty caught between buns spruced up with a little TLC (tomato, lettuce and catsup) needs no explaining.

Cons. Because of its glorious potential, sandwiches might distract the viewer of the real star of the show—the movie itself! Also, sandwiches may not last as long as the other snack items. A sandwich would last an average of only about 20 bites. And another thing, this one needs your two hands—which may not be a good thing if you have date along. Just saying.

FRENCH FRIES

Deep-fried and flavored. These hot potato strips are one of the best snack options when one is out watching a movie.

Pros. If you’re already a fan of French fries, then getting some during a movie may prove a great choice. How long it lasts a viewer may depend on the size that is bought. But deep fried stuff is ultimately hard to say no to—unless you’re some die-hard dietician.

Cons. That “die-hard dietician” just mentioned may ultimately live longer than you will. But kidding asides, too much of deep-fried French fries may not be good for the body. This one here is definitely packed with cholesterol.

JUNK FOOD

The most “accessible” piece of the whole snack pack; and quite affordable too!

Pros. As mentioned, you won’t have a problem scoring some fast and easy. Plus, a person would have a great variety—and we mean lots—of products to choose from. Let’s just include nachos here for good measure.

Cons. It’s not exactly the healthiest choice. Also, the aluminum packaging and the crunchiness of a potato or corn chip, makes it an annoying snack for those strangers who are seated near you. These things can get pretty noisy—considering the movie house is a little more silent than just other regular place.

PEANUTS

This one here is like a hybrid of popcorn, French fries and junk food. There are many pieces in a pack, sometimes it’s fried in oil, and sometimes, it could come in mixed varieties distributed in tetra packs.

Pros. This treat is tasty and is a little bit more “organic” compared to the other choices. It is fun to eat and share as well and a pack may last long throughout the entire movie. Remember hearing as a kid that peanuts were considered “good for the brain?” Well now you can buy a pack to go along while watching Inception all over again.

Cons. It could get mushy and boring, just like a bad drama. A pack of mixed nuts could save you for this plight.

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Original story here!

#throwbackthursday - Missin' the MBA

MBA: Metropolitan Basketball Association.

     I don't want to research and write about minute details about this basketball league. But I will share here in this blog that I miss the old tournament.

     When I was a young boy--probably around two years old--I started watching basketball games (sports in general; I think Bata Reyes and Bustamante where masters of pool during this time). It think the league started in 1998 (okay I did a little research on Wiki), and I recall watching the very first MBA game that was held in Pangasinan.

     Based in Cebu, I rooted for the Cebu Gems. I would describe the Gems' brand of basketball as rugged. I also remember the Gems losing to the Manila Metrostars that day. 

     It hurt.

     In fact, I recall that the Cebu Gems never had an imposing and dominating presence during the league's short stint. There was one playoff series with the Negros Slashers, when the Gems were up 3-1, only to be beaten by the Slashers thrice straight, 4-3. The Slashers went on to win the Southern Conference title.

     It hurt.

     The following year, the Gems made it to the finals. Only to lose against the Metrostars.

     It hurt.

     So maybe part of this re-emergent desire for the MBA to be back was rooted how the Gems can't seem to be a great team. Well, in our defense dynasties need time to be formed! The league only lasted a good four-five years, I think.

Some computer-generated design off the internet

     I remember good times from then. Like, I remember Felix Belano of the Davao Eagles who was the first one who was able to accomplish a quadruple-double! I don't remember the exact statistics but that was a sick feat. I also recall Alex Compton teaching his "L-T" way of shooting (it's tough to explain here), and of course, I remember how, unfortunately, Cebuano fans pelted the court with water bottles after an official decision was met with disgust.

     I remember some of the Gems players: Hontiveros, Wainwright, Mitchell, Tan, Padilla, Almonte, Manigo--who had this crazy moniker: The Mask--and their coach Yturri.

The Mask

     That was about 15-16 years ago.

     The MBA has long but died, but the spirit of basketball in the country is stronger than ever. (I couldn't help that line from sounding like a lift from a cliche draft of a eulogy, but anyway). In recent years, the Smart Gilas project was formed under the eye of Manny V. Pangilinan. This program tried to put up the best basketball team in the country to represent the Philippines in international tournaments.

     The biggest project to date would the FIBA World Cup happening in Spain, August 2014. The team will be comprised of selected PBA players handpicked by veteran coach Chot Reyes. I follow the Gilas games as much as possible and I can say they're an inspiring bunch.

     One highlight would be when MVP brought NBA SUPERSTARS here in the PH during the NBA lockout season. Bryant, Durant, Rose, Paul and Harden were among the stars that were present that year (was that 2012?). The Gilas squad brought their game and didn't wither in front of the superstars. For them, to have fun was to be competitive. They would have lost anyway, but the squad tried anyway. That alone is inspiring.

The NBA stars surround the Pambansang Kamao, Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao

     Anyway, with these sound developments about basketball in the country, maybe the MBA won't ever be re-introduced. It's way easier said than done. The current Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is backed by teams sponsored by multi-million peso companies. By the end of the day, money talks.

     But anyway, allow me to think out loud and enumerate a few reason why I think the MBA could flourish better if it were launched these days. All of this is childish talk that won't be backed up by figures. Just jam along if you dare.

     1.) Plane tickets are cheaper

     When Cebu Pacific decided to offer "piso fares," people in this entire country probably booked more flights than ever. Cebu Pacific could easily be a major sponsor for tournament. Then schedules could be arranged to make it less of a hassle for the teams.

     2.) Social media marketing will be a blast

     It's no secret. People identify themselves better by rooting for their hometown than rooting for a brand. If these brands decide to "adopt" a province, they could do a whole lot when it comes to online marketing. They could sell jerseys, they could upload videos, they could just post whatever online for the audience to gobble up. Today, the PBA has basketball fans watching. The MBA will even have non-sports fans rooting for their hometown team. (But now on second thought, what if a particular brand/team, beats every hometown else--would that mean no sales of the winning brand in those locations? Haha)

     3.) PH has placed itself in the basketball map of the world

     For starters, qualifying for this year's FIBA World Cup is no easy feat. We are the second best basketball team in Asia and one of the top 24 in the world.

PH in top 24 of World Basketball

     Also, the biggest basketball league in the world, the NBA, is not alien to the fact that Filipinos are a basketball-crazy lot. And Filipinos in turn, are very up to date with how the NBA is run. If the MBA were present today, it can easily learn a thing or two from how the NBA is run. We never know, the Stephon Marburys or Tracy McGradys of the NBA may end up in the MBA instead of some league in China.

     4.) Local, regional development will be encouraged

     With the games happening all over the country, grassroots development is sure to follow. Perhaps it could start with a stellar coliseum per province. Tourism will have another cash cow besides beaches and hills; this time, it would be basketball. Pinoy fans are crazy about basketball. I'm sure every team with homecourt advantage will have the best fans in the world rooting for them.

     5.) Better opportunities for players all over the PH

     It's not that the present system isn't doing enough scouting players with potential. But placing professional games in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao will inspire generations to train and excel in the sport. The "selection pool" to highlight players from would be much larger. Little kids will grow up with hometown heroes. These kids will grow up wanting to be the best in the game.

     On a side note, the tournament may prove educational too. It's some sort of national tour that is broadcast on television. See? Deped and DOT should check this out! Haha.

     So there it is, let me know what you think! Cheers!

Five ways to fix the "Monday blues"

Who the hell is that guy with the shotgun?

     WITH the family, we try our best to make Sunday night sort of "momentous." Whether it's watching movies or eating out, I grew up wanting to score a perfect 10 every Sunday night when it came to having some fun. It was my (our) way of trying to address the dreaded "disease" known as the Monday blues. I for one, didn't want waking up to the sound of the alarm clock. That, among a lot of other things as well, like:

     ...the sound of plates prepared outside for an early breakfast.

     ...the sound of people waking up people because some people are running late.

     ...the sound of toiling; drills and hammering done at a nearby construction site.

     I don't want to hear the sound of the telephone ringing, I don't want to hear the breeze come in through my door. I don't want to hear any footsteps either from humans or canines.

     ...The fact that I'm hearing these things mean that I have already been disturbed from my Sunday slumber. Yes! Here-comes-another-Monday.

     Forgive me if I sound a little cranky, I'm writing this on a Monday with the hopes that this serves as some mental therapy to get me back in a writing groove. I'm a little sloppy lately. This post right here, I see as some "sweat session" for my brains. I want to try weaving, ducking and practicing those punch lines.

     I'm not sure if there is a some scientific study out there to explain this psychological phenomenon of waking up at the wrong side of the bed on Mondays. Or how people feel a little bit down during the, first day of the working week. But whatever the case, here's a little personal suggestion how you can enjoy Mondays.

     (DISCLAIMER: I write this from a viewpoint of a working guy who works from Monday to Saturday, on a day shift.)

     #1: Make Sundays Special 

     

     I'll start with this one first. As I mentioned before starting this post, I personally love to end the week with a bang. I find it as a way to celebrate, or to reward one's self after the working week. You can go out with family or friends, eat somewhere, head on a road trip somewhere—it doesn't matter what you choose to do, just as long you enjoy it.  But please, don't party 'til the break of dawn if you're to report for work 7 the next morning. By ending the week happy, you'll probably sleep with a smile and wake up with one.

She's smiling while asleep. What kind of grass is this exactly?

     #2: Sleep Well

     I'm the type who can sleep anywhere. Really.

     Throw a few mats on the floor and I can doze off. One time on a trip in Bohol, I slept on the wooden floor with my backpack as a pillow and an unused towel for a blanket.

     ...But that was a Saturday night.  And I was out of town.  With a great itinerary the following day. So I may not have got up the next day all "happy" if it were a regular weekend at home.

     Point is, on a physical aspect, prep your body clock for a good night's sleep, thus, eliminating the chances of a cranky wake up call. After you do step #1, you might want to make sure your bed and bedroom is a miniature copy of heaven. Make sure you're in a place that's conducive for sleep and that your pillow, is "stiff neck-proof." Oh, you do not want to wake up for work with a stiff neck.

No. Way.

     #3: Get A Lot Of Sun On Mon

Ah. Yeah.

     Some scientific studies published state that people are more likely to be up and about with a little dose of sunshine.  It's good to start things on the right foot. So when Mondays come about, make sure you open your windows and allow the heat of the sun to brush against your cheeks to wake you up. That is if your room has any access to sunlight, whatsoever. 

     At work, some of us are stuck in the office, seated the whole day thus our exposure to sunlight is minimal. So try to walk out on breaks. Try to feel the sunlight on your face. Living in Cebu, we have the advantage of living in a city that's adorned with a tropical charm. Sure there are gloomy days when the rain clouds are out. But on a normal day? Embrace the heat and breathe in the good vibes.

     #4: Pick A Good Alarm Sound

     Some of us are natural masochists. While setting our alarm tones, we download an audio sample of a busy firetruck siren or an alarm that sounds like it went off because the Incredible Hulk is in the building.

     I understand the notion that some people need a little push in getting up. But the flip side is obvious; the first mood you'll be experiencing for the day is being annoyed. You're awake at the expense of a headache.

     Why not go for something, soothing? I know it beats the purpose of an "alarm" in the first place. But what about setting up a good song you like to wake you up?

"Wake Me Up Inside" 

     #5: Good Breakfast

     It's all connected if you've noticed. You party late, you sleep anywhere, a stupid alarm wakes you up,  you get up late and rush to the office. You totally skip breakfast.

     That may not be a bright idea. It has long been a belief that breakfast is one of the more important meals in the day. I believe almost everyone of us loves to eat. If there is a way you can have a good meal at the start of the day, chances are you'll love the next 8-12 hours that's coming.

Unless you're vegetarian, who wouldn't look forward to waking up?

     Just a little something before this post ends. Despite all the tips mentioned, it's good to have a do-list when you get up for Mondays. It's nice to end the day knowing you've ticked off a few items on the list. Getting Mondays right may set you up for the rest of the week. Be productive.

     There you have it guys! Would you have any more suggestions how you can skip the "Monday blues"? Let me know!

How "Flappy Bird" broke hearts

     FROM global hit to some sort of collector’s item, the mega-popular Flappy Bird game has been officially taken down by its creator from online stores—add, “for now”—if you are one of those in denial after news of the game’s quick demise. But as of this writing: game over.

     Oh yes, like love that comes and goes, some are either broken by the news or relieved.

     But anyhow, this story will take a quick look at how this game captured millions of hearts worldwide; and then left everyone hanging in the air, wondering what really happened.

     But before the posthumous analysis how people developed a love-hate relationship with the bird with no name, here’s a quick lowdown on the game.

     Flappy Bird is (was) a game created by Vietnamese indie game developer, Dong Nguyen and it has been downloaded 50 million times.

Six points? Really?

     The game play is simple (or too simple—deceptively simple). A player just has to tap the screen to allow the bird to fly. One tap equals one “pop” that allows the bird to rise in the air. Tap rapidly and you get what you give, the bird rises high up. Stop tapping and the bird just crashes. Then there are the pipe obstacles, which you need to navigate the bird through.

     That’s just about it. Hit the ground or pipes and the game ends. A single point is awarded each time the bird flies past a pipe. Amass a whole lot of points and brag to friends.

     Nguyen’s game, before he took it down for personal reasons, raked in $50,000 daily. In an interview with The Verge, the developer said that “the reason Flappy Bird is so popular is that it happens to be something different from mobile games today and is a really good game to compete against each other.”

     Anyway, here are three random theories how people all over the world fell in love with the game:

Nothing like delayed gratification

     It holds out gratification like a good football match.
     
     A thrilling football match, unlike basketball, may go on for hours yet only rewards a team with a single point or two. The ball game may provide too much tension for the audience rooting for their respective teams, that by the time their favorite striker scores a goal, fans go ballistic after holding their breath for 30-35 minutes of watching the ball go up and down the court.

GOAL! Set the grass on fire!

     “Viva!” They scream, shout, dance—they gather as much oxygen as possible to make up for the amount they lost watching the game in suspense. The game Flappy Bird, taps into that sense in a much more miniscule way, of course. The higher the player’s score goes, the better possibility of him not breathing.

     In fact, the heart seems to involuntarily stop beating so as not to distract the player’s finger-tapping rhythm. People pay a good buck to get scared at cinemas. Flappy Bird gives you the suspense for free.

The level playing field

     “This looks pretty, easy. I can beat the top score of 10 points easily.”

     A guy tells himself after the girlfriend shows him the game. Sure enough, the boyfriend can’t even get past one pipe obstacle during his first try. The game looks pretty darn easy when one lays his eyes on it at first. How hard can tapping and timing be?

     The game creator must have had a grand time with testing the game on people, watching their reactions how they could lose to a pixilated cartoon bird. In the end, the game invites the hardcore and the novice gamers alike and brings them to a common handicap level. Everybody can tap, and everybody can practice enough timing. 

     No thinking, no RPG strategies, no cheats—anybody can beat anybody with this latest bird game.

Audience impact: Nostalgia points

     UNFORTUNATELY, the game has its share of cons. Some game developers are crying foul for the lazy design. It obviously borrows design elements from the super-popular computer game in the 90s—Super Mario Bros. Yes, the pipes and even the whole, 2D design approach. But then the whole idea of putting an “ugly” game in a “sophisticated” phone makes the game somewhat nostalgic and endearing. This game is a modern day miracle.

The left pipe is from Flappy Bird. The right pipe is from Super Mario.

     In an age when everybody tries to come up with games that offer much gloss and glam, Nguyen was lucky to hit the jackpot.

     But then did he, really? If it is indeed true that he grew tired of the success and attention he was getting, then fame and fortune apparently isn’t for everyone.

     Whether this game will go on history as one of the videogame milestones achieved by indie developers, or go out as one of the most irritating games ever invented—whatever the case, enjoy the game on your mobile devices while you won’t be switching phones or tablets.

     Goodbye, Flappy Bird.

She looks fine getting rid of the game anyway!

= = =


Original story out here.